The event is scheduled to take place from June 15 to 19, 2026.
According to Village Urugwiro, President Kagame is expected to deliver remarks during the conference, which brings together key stakeholders in Africa’s air transport sector.
The convention is jointly organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission and the African Union.
Participants include ministers responsible for transport, heads of civil aviation authorities, executives from airlines and airport management companies, as well as industry leaders, investors and development partners involved in the aviation sector.
One of the conference’s main objectives is to accelerate the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market, an African Union initiative aimed at eliminating barriers to air travel across the continent and promoting greater integration within Africa’s aviation industry.
Delegates will also discuss strategies to build a more resilient, competitive and sustainable air transport system capable of supporting economic growth and regional connectivity throughout Africa.
Village Urugwiro further indicated that, alongside the conference, President Kagame is expected to hold bilateral talks with Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé.
The previous edition of the African aviation forum was held in Kigali from September 4 to 5, 2025. Speaking at that event, President Kagame highlighted the growing importance of air transport on the continent.
“In the coming years, the number of people using air transport in Africa is expected to nearly double. Significant efforts are being made at the continental level to open up our skies through various initiatives,” Kagame said.
He noted that Rwanda had already removed visa requirements for all African nationals as part of efforts to promote the free movement of people across the continent.
“Encouraging greater participation of women and young people in the aviation sector is also among our priorities,” he added.
President Kagame emphasized that, if managed effectively, the expansion of Africa’s aviation industry could create substantial employment opportunities and drive innovation.
He also pointed out that Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir, continues to expand its route network. However, he cautioned that the sector still faces significant challenges, including rising operational costs and inadequate infrastructure in many parts of the continent.
The African Air Transport Convention & Expo is expected to provide a platform for governments and industry stakeholders to explore solutions to these challenges while advancing the vision of a more connected Africa through efficient and accessible air transport.
